President Emmanuel Macron on Wednesday warned Israel against closing down the French consulate in Jerusalem as a possible retaliatory measure following his announcement earlier this week that France now recognizes a Palestinian state.
"I think that would be a major error, and therefore I don't believe it will happen," he said in an interview with France 24 and Radio France Internationale on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly in New York.
On the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, Macron outlined France’s plan for Gaza, which includes a ceasefire, the release of hostages, the formation of a transitional administration, training of police forces and an international mission mandated by the United Nations to maintain stability. “Countries in the region and beyond will participate in France's plan for Gaza,” he said, emphasizing a broader goal of establishing a demilitarized Palestinian state that recognizes Israel.
Macron criticized ongoing military actions in Gaza, stating, “The current war in Gaza is not the best way to protect Israel,” and urging the Israeli government to halt its “bloody, frenzied race.”
Regarding Lebanon, Macron praised its diversity as “a model in the region and a country greater than itself” and announced that France will organize a conference to aid reconstruction. He pledged further support for the Lebanese Army, stating it “must regain control of the entire south” while Israeli forces “must withdraw from southern Lebanon.”
Macron also emphasized the army’s plan to confiscate weapons as a path to regaining authority, adding that France is working closely with the US on these efforts.
Macron commented on Syria, expressing hope that negotiations between Damascus and the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) will achieve their intended outcomes and that President Ahmad al-Sharaa will “punish the perpetrators of the violations.” He also expressed a desire for a security agreement between Syria and Israel.
Throughout the interview, Macron stressed that France is actively engaged in promoting stability and security across the Middle East, saying, “We are working to launch a ‘Security and Peace for All’ plan for Gaza.”
Macron said that NATO countries must “step up” their response to any new Russian provocations, particularly in Eastern European airspace, in an interview with France 24 and Radio France Internationale.
“That means if someone provokes you again, you have to react a bit more strongly,” Macron explained from New York, where he is attending the UN General Assembly.
However, regarding these “tests” by the Russian military, “we will not open fire,” he added, contradicting US President Donald Trump on this point.
Macron detailed his administration’s approach to regional security and diplomacy during an interview with al-Hadath, highlighting France’s strategic partnerships, ongoing plans for Gaza and a firm stance on Iran’s nuclear program.
Macron emphasized the importance of France’s relationship with Saudi Arabia, stating, “We reached the New York Declaration thanks to our strategic relationship with Saudi Arabia,” and adding that the ties “are based on friendship and trust.”
Turning to Iran, Macron stressed the need for concrete action, saying, “Iran must prove it does not plan to acquire nuclear capabilities” and warning that “we will reimpose sanctions on Iran if it does not allow the return of inspectors.” He expressed hope for resumed negotiations, noting, “I have hope for resuming talks if the Iranians adopt a serious spirit.”
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